There are many important reasons to communicate with your yoga teacher. The time before and after class offers a valuable opportunity to speak with your teacher at more length than you can when a class is underway. It is important to remember that your teacher’s key goal is to facilitate the experience of yoga for you. If there is anything at all that impacts on your experience, then it is essential your teacher is aware of that.

Before class

Injuries

Let your teacher know about any new injuries or the status of any ongoing injuries. Your teacher will ask you which positions cause discomfort or pain and any movements that are limited by your injury. It is helpful to inform your teacher if you are aware of any specific yoga poses that are impacted by your injury. Your teacher can then discuss alternatives with you and plan ahead for the class.

Health conditions

It is important to let your teacher know if you are experiencing any new health conditions or if any pre-existing conditions have worsened. Some yoga poses are contraindicated for some health conditions such as high blood pressure, glaucoma, vertigo. If you are recovering from an illness your teacher may also offer modifications to help support your energy levels.

Menstruation

Iyengar yoga is a supportive practice during menstruation. Poses such as strongly compressive abdominal movements can increase discomfort and are avoided. Inversions and strong backbends are also not practiced during menstruation. This is a time when energy can be low and poses can be offered that are more supportive.

During the class

It is important to alert your teacher if you are experiencing pain or discomfort in a pose. You should also check with your teacher if you are unsure of a direction given or if you are not clear about how to set up in a pose, particularly if props are involved. Don’t be afraid to speak to your teacher during the class. All the teachers at Unfold prioritise individual students’ needs.

After class

This is a time where you can discuss any questions, issues or concerns that arose during the class. The discussion may be centred around something you experienced during the class that has just occurred or about a particular pose that you would like to progress, but you are not sure how to. You may also like to talk to your teacher more generally about your practice, including any blocks you are experiencing or how to start a home practice. We welcome you to discuss with your teacher further about managing any injuries or health conditions during your practice and during class.

Open communication between yoga teacher and yoga student is crucial. One of our main goals at Unfold is providing an environment in which your yoga practice can thrive. All communication from our students is highly valued and we love to hear from you.

by Samantha Smith